Chicken-Broccoli-Cheese Soup
Creamy chicken, broccoli, and cheese soup combines tender broccoli, savory chicken, and melted cheeses for a comforting, hearty meal perfect for family dinners and chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 1 1/4 sticks of butter or margarine in a Dutch oven.
- Mix in flour and stir until well combined.
- Add half and half and chicken broth, stirring constantly.
- Heat over medium heat just to the boiling point without boiling.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more chicken broth or milk as needed.
- Microwave broccoli with 3/4 stick of butter and a little water until desired doneness.
- Add the cooked broccoli to the soup mixture.
- Stir in Velveeta cheese until melted, then add optional sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Add chopped cooked chicken to the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream instead of half and half. You can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen, but adjust cooking times accordingly. If you prefer a healthier version, try using a lower-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken-Broccoli-Cheese Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Salad Sandwiches(I Remember A Plate Of These Piled A Foot High.) for a delightful lunch. For added texture, consider topping the soup with croutons or additional shredded cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short increments, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Broccoli-Cheese Soup contains roughly 994 calories, with 20g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1602mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this soup?
Absolutely! While Velveeta gives a creamy consistency, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt differently, so the texture may vary.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken-Broccoli-Cheese Soup, but it's best to omit the cheese before freezing, as it may change texture when thawed. Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later, and add freshly shredded cheese when you reheat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).